Is Stress Hazardous to Your Health? Yikes!

August 13th, 2010 // 4:47 pm @ marla

Did you know that Stress is America’s #1 health problem?

Stress is a leading cause of major illness. High blood pressure, depression, ulcers, insomnia and heart disease are just some of the harmful effects of stress. Research has shown that releasing stress along with learning how to relax promotes a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.

In the corporate world, stress costs have reportedly increased to over $300 billion a year in absenteeism and healthcare expenses. Stress has contributed to a high turn over rate and high worker’s compensation costs. In fact, more human resource departments are offering wellness programs in the workplace to combat these issues.

So, what can you do about it? Here are seven excellent ways to help you release stress and to find your way to a more balanced, satisfying, and healthier life.

7 Great Ways to Reduce Your Stress:

1. Meditate- Meditation involves sitting comfortably with your eyes closed and allowing your mind to relax and is a vehicle to release your mental stress. It’s effective, easy and you can meditate almost anywhere.

2. Exercise- Exercise gets the blood circulating, releases endorphins and distributes oxygen to your system. If you exercise on a regular basis, this is probably the most effective way to curb stress.

3. Read a Book- Reading enables you to get totally involved in something different, giving your mind a break for the time being.

4. Practice Guided Imagery- Guided visualization is a cousin to meditation. This technique gives your mind a change of scenery, and the opportunity to “chill.” If meditation is too intimidating for you, guided imagery is the perfect alternative.

5. Stretch Your Muscles- We react to stress by tensing our muscles; stretching releases the stress stored there and helps your muscles loosen up. When your muscles loosen up, so do you!

6. Take a Hot Bath- Heat promotes muscle relaxation, and the warmth of the bath will help calm your busy mind. This combination will get you relaxed in record time.

7. Recite Positive Affirmations- Repeating positive affirmations will help clear your mind of stress and help you to change your thought patterns in a way that won’t hang on to stress. Positive Affirmations has had remarkable results in stress management.

Find the most suitable way for you to release your stress and make it a habit. Making time to take care of yourself now will save you hours at the doctor’s office later on.

Marla Sloane, Ph.D.

Share and Enjoy: